Intercomp aircraft scales offer a comprehensive solution for the latest air mobility technologies, especially for the development and operation of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles. The growing demand in the eVTOL segment for extremely precise weight and balance data requires reliable, high-precision measuring instruments. Intercomp systems are ideal for testing prototypes, inspecting series-produced units, and validating critical weight distribution.
These scales ensure the necessary precision according to the highest industry standards, which is essential for developing safe and efficient flight profiles for next-generation aircraft.
Intercomp weighing systems play a key role in every phase of the eVTOL development process:
Prototype Weight Measurement: In the early development phase, it is essential to accurately determine the dry weight of the vehicles and the center of gravity for various configurations.
Battery Weight Distribution Optimization: Since eVTOLs heavily depend on battery placement, the scales help optimize weight distribution to maximize range and stability.
Load Testing: Simulation and measurement of various load conditions (passengers, cargo) to define the flight envelope.
Maintenance and Inspection: Regular weight checks ensure compliance with manufacturer specifications even after maintenance.
Intercomp offers solutions across a wide scale, ranging from platform scales to precision Jack Weigh kits, ensuring flexibility for different sizes and types of eVTOL vehicles.
These systems are ideal for static, high-precision measurements where the total vehicle weight and axle load must be determined simultaneously. They are particularly suitable for larger prototypes or full-scale test benches.
| Model | Characteristic | Capacity (approx.) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC15-LP™ | Low-Profile | Low Capacity | Light eVTOL units, test benches |
| AC40-LP™ | Low-Profile | Medium Capacity | Medium-sized eVTOL vehicles |
| AC60-LP™ | Low-Profile, High Capacity | High Capacity | Larger, multi-rotor eVTOL concepts |
| AC30-60™ | High Capacity | Very High Capacity | Heavier experimental or cargo UAVs |
| ACII™ | Full aircraft weighing system | Alternating | Comprehensive, integrated weight and balance measurement |
Main Features:
Low-Profile: Facilitates vehicle loading onto the weighing platform, which is critical for winged or low-ground-clearance eVTOLs.
High Accuracy: Excellent repeatability and resolution for critical center-of-gravity calculations.
Robust Construction: Specifically designed for aerospace environments.
Jack weighing systems allow the vehicle to be lifted at four (or more) points and simultaneously weighed. This method is essential for determining the precise Center of Gravity (CG), which is fundamental to eVTOL controllability.
| Model | Characteristic | Capacity (approx.) | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jack Weigh AC100™ Kit | Standard Jack Weigh Kit | Medium/High | Reliable, easily installed |
| Jack Weigh EZ RFX® Kit | Wireless (RFX®) Technology | Alternating | Maximum flexibility in load cell placement |
Advantages for eVTOLs:
CG Determination: Enables the weighing of the center of gravity along the vehicle's vertical and horizontal axes, which is vital for flight stability.
Wireless Operation: RFX® technology eliminates tripping hazards caused by cables on the test stand and simplifies installation.
The accuracy of weighing systems depends significantly on the quality of the indicator and data processing units. Intercomp offers advanced digital solutions for real-time data management.
TAC30™ CPU – Touchscreen Indicator: Provides an intuitive user interface that simplifies complex weight and balance calculations. Capable of receiving data from multiple load cells simultaneously.
RFX® Wireless Handheld Indicator: A flexible, portable display that allows the operator to remain near the measurement points while viewing weight data in real time.
RFX® Wireless AC100™ Aircraft Scale CPU: A central unit optimized specifically for Jack Weigh Kits, ensuring wireless data transmission.
ACWeigh™ Software: A comprehensive software platform for recording, analyzing, and documenting aircraft weight and balance data. Assists in generating the precise values required for Flight Manual (AFM) data.
iACWeigh™: A mobile application-based solution that allows for data collection and management via tablets or smartphones, increasing mobility in the test environment.
eVTOL development places special demands on measuring equipment, especially due to the weight of lightweight structures and high-power batteries.
Intercomp systems provide exceptional accuracy, which is essential for the flight approval processes of aviation authorities.
Calibration Systems: To maintain accuracy, calibration systems are available, such as the CSM™ Manual Test Stand and CSA™ Automated Test Stand. These systems ensure that load cells and indicators always operate within the specified tolerance.
Certified Training: Lehetőség van Certified Weight & Balance Training for hands-on participation, ensuring personnel apply the highest level of procedures during measurements.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Measurement Principle | High-precision, low-profile Load Cells |
| Communication | Wired (RS-232/485) and Wireless (RFX®) Options |
| Display | High-resolution touch screen CPUs (e.g., TAC30™) |
| Data Management | Real-time weight and CG calculations, data logging |
| Environmental Resistance | Robust construction designed for industrial and airport environments |
| Integration | Compatible with modern flight simulation and data acquisition systems |
Intercomp has decades of experience in precision measurement, especially in aerospace technology. In the eVTOL sector, unique weight distribution challenges arise compared to traditional aircraft (e.g., battery placement, distributed propulsion).
Industry-Specific Solutions: The applications specifically designed for eVTOL developments (Aircraft Scales for eVTOL) show that the company understands the unique needs of new mobility platforms.
Modular Systems: The combinability of platform scales and lift scales allows for the creation of scalable solutions tailored to testing requirements.
Vezeték Nélküli Szabadság: RFX® technology minimizes cabling issues, making measurements faster and safer in cluttered test environments.
These measuring instruments do not just measure weight; they provide crucial data for the design and operation of safe, efficient, and compliant eVTOL vehicles.